Chipotle CEO Responds to Portion Size Complaints

Chipotle's CEO, Brian Niccol, has responded to widespread social media complaints about shrinking portion sizes by committing to retrain staff at about 10% of its 3,500 locations where portion sizes were found to be inadequate. Niccol emphasized that there was never a directive to reduce portions and reiterated that generous portions are a core part of Chipotle’s brand. The company will invest approximately $50 million to ensure consistency in serving sizes, including two scoops of rice and four ounces of meat per serving. Despite the backlash, Chipotle reported strong financial performance in the second quarter of 2024, with an 11% increase in comparable sales and robust investor support. Analysts and customers alike have noted the positive impact of these changes, although the company acknowledges the cost associated with maintaining these standards.